George D. Wise (Union) facts for kids
George Douglas Wise (born December 31, 1816 – died March 18, 1881) was an important officer who served in the Union Army during the American Civil War. He played a key role in making sure the army had the supplies it needed.
Early Life
George D. Wise was born on December 31, 1816, in Brooklyn, New York. Before the war, he worked for the United States Coast Survey. This group helped map the coastlines of the country. He was also a second cousin to Henry A. Wise, who was a politician and a general for the Confederate side during the war.
Serving His Country
When the Civil War began, George D. Wise joined the Union Army. On September 21, 1861, he became a captain and an assistant quartermaster. A quartermaster is someone who helps manage and deliver supplies, food, and equipment to soldiers.
From 1864 to 1865, Wise was put in charge of a special group. This group, called Division 2, handled all the transportation of supplies by ocean and lake for the Quartermaster General Department. This was a very important job, making sure soldiers had what they needed to fight.
On August 2, 1864, he was promoted to colonel and continued his work as a quartermaster until January 1, 1867.
Special Honors
George D. Wise received several special honorary ranks, called "brevet" grades. These honors recognized his excellent service. He was given the honorary ranks of major, lieutenant colonel, colonel, and brigadier general. All these honors were given to him on March 13, 1865.
On January 13, 1866, President Andrew Johnson suggested that Wise be officially appointed as an honorary brigadier general of volunteers. The United States Senate agreed to this appointment on March 12, 1866. Wise left the volunteer army on October 1, 1867.
Later Life
George D. Wise passed away on March 18, 1881, in Binghamton, New York. He was buried in Green Mount Cemetery in Baltimore, Maryland.
